Rachel Cusk’s upcoming book sparks Natalie Portman speculation
A new report suggests Rachel Cusk’s highly anticipated novel may feature a fictional actress based on Natalie Portman
Natalie Portman is reportedly at the center of speculation surrounding acclaimed author Rachel Cusk’s upcoming novel Life of M, with claims emerging that the fictional story closely mirrors the Oscar winner’s life.
According to a column by UnHerd writer Valerie Stivers, literary insiders in New York believe Cusk’s new novel is a thinly veiled portrait of Portman, despite the actress reportedly being an admirer of the British novelist’s work.
Set for release on August 25, Life of M follows a globally famous actress known simply as "M," whose extraordinary celebrity has blurred the boundaries between fame and reality.
The story also focuses on a writer determined to uncover the woman behind the public image while documenting her life.
Stivers claimed the fictional character shares several key biographical details with Portman and alleged that the actress was unhappy with how she was portrayed.
She further wrote that the novel's conclusion reflects what is "said to be true to life," although those claims have not been independently confirmed.
Portman has previously praised Cusk’s writing, recommending her acclaimed Outline trilogy in a 2021 interview with Elle. The actress described the books as a surprising example of revealing a protagonist through the perspectives of those around them.
Representatives for Portman have not publicly commented on the speculation surrounding Life of M.